Ulcer & Wound Care

Due to their extensive training and background in the management of difficult or complex wounds, plastic surgeons are frequently called upon to evaluate and treat non-healing ulcers and wounds, particularly those which have not responded to initial, reasonable attempts at wound care.  These difficult wounds may arise in a vast array of settings and as a result of many different mechanisms.  Patient risk factors for such wounds include neurologic disease or debility, arterial or venous vascular disease, diabetes mellitus, history of radiation exposure or proximity to a previous burn or surgical site.

After performing a detailed, accurate ulcer or wound assessment, plastic surgeons will then formulate a specific treatment plan for every individual patient which may include operative and/or non-operative therapy.  This plan will typically take into consideration the patient’s general health characteristics (including age and pre-existing medical conditions) as well as specific factors relating to the wound such as location, depth and any functional tissues which have become exposed or damaged. Many of the procedures performed to reconstruct non-healing ulcers and burn wound are appropriately performed on an outpatient basis in a State Licensed, Nationally Accredited Ambulatory Surgery Center (see ‘about Keystone Surgery Center’) Following treatment, plastic surgeons will then typically coordinate rehabilitation needs in order to promote their patients’ return to optimal overall health and productivity.

When considering treatment for a non-healing ulcer or wound, be sure to select a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). As a board certified plastic surgeon with over 15 years of clinical practice experience and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (The Mark of Distinction in Cosmetic Plastic Surgery® ASAPS), Dr. Robert Kimmel welcomes the opportunity to offer his expertise in the management of complex or difficult ulcers and wounds, while optimizing function and cosmetic appearance.

For more details on this procedure or to schedule a consultation, please call Robert M. Kimmel, MD, FACS, PC at (570) 622-2900, (570) 455-4252 or contact us via email.